Scot McKay

McKay, who also revamped KRML radio station, died Wednesday after a three-month illness, according to an obituary released by David Armanasco of Armanaco Public Relations in Monterey. He leaves his wife of 33 years, Heidi, and seven children: Ashley, Elyse Stirton (Jacob), Bridget DeMayo (Justin), Kyle, Paige, Matthew and Ian; sisters, Nancy Campbell (Burke), Mary Debes (William) and Jan Godshaw (Donald); and many nieces and nephews.

McKay was born and raised in Evanston, Illinois, where he lived until 1999 when he moved to Wilmette. A successful businessman, he founded McKay Spoke'n Sport and McKay Front Runner, acquired McKay Nissan which he expanded into Mazda and Suzuki, acquired Acura of Libertyville and, among others, was a partner of the Clean Plate Restaurant Group, which included Pete Miller's, Davis Street Fishmarket, Tommy Nevin's Pub and Merle's restaurants. He also served on the board of directors of the American International Automotive Dealer Association. In 2003, he moved his family to Carmel, where he bought and renovated the Carmel Valley Athletic Club; developed and built relaxation spa, Refuge; revamped local radio station KRML; and most recently acquired Gardiner Ranch, turning it into a wedding and business retreat facility.

A Mass is scheduled for 11 a.m. July 19 at the Carmel Mission Basilica, 3080 Rio Road, Carmel. A celebration of life party will follow at Gardiner Ranch, 114 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Sur Land Trust. Facebook "likes" are also requested (tongue in cheek) for for Refuge, KRML, CVAC, and Gardiner Ranch. Visit www.missionmortuary.com for online condolences.